Thompson (urban leadership and policy studies, University of Missouri) presents essays by scholars of middle level education, written specifically for policymakers. Academics in educational administration, education, and curriculum and instruction, as well as members of organizations such as the National Middle School Association and the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform, discuss issues surrounding qualified principals, curriculum, socially equitable middle grades schools, and state-level policy development. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)